Back to work: Duchess of Cambridge to make first public appearance after birth of Prince George at wildlife award gala

The Duchess of Cambridge's first public engagement since the birth of her baby has been announced - an appearance at a glittering awards ceremony.

Kate will join William at the event next month that will recognise outstanding figures from the world of wildlife conservation.

It had been thought the duchess would spend much of the autumn out of the limelight and away from public duties caring for her baby, Prince George, born in July.

But confirmation from Kensington Palace that Kate will take part in the event may indicate the duchess plans to juggle motherhood with royal engagements sooner than expected.

Wildlife do: Britain's Prince William takes part in a falconry display
William is royal patron of the wildlife conservation charity Tusk Trust which is staging the event, likely to be held in the evening at a central London location.

Two awards will be presented, a lifetime achievement honour named after the duke and another recognising an up-and-coming conservationist.

The ceremony will be filmed for a new documentary featuring the duke and in the programme he will speak about his hopes for his family and his passion for wildlife conservation.

William has been interviewed by the broadcasters ITV and CNN for the hour-long show which will be screened in full next month.

Part of the programme will be broadcast by CNN on Monday and in it the prince will reflect on becoming a father and how it has changed him.

I've got one of those at home: William meets a small squirming boy at the show
A spokeswoman for ITV said: "Prince William also talks about his love of Africa, his commitment to wildlife conservation and his hope that Prince George will one day share these passions.

"He explains the pivotal part that Africa has played in his life and reflects on continuing a royal legacy in the continent, building on his father's conservation work and Princess Diana's humanitarian campaigns."